How do you keep pets happy and healthy in lockdown?

Since social distancing rules came in, it’s been tricky for some dog owners to make sure their pooches get enough exercise.

At Platinum Skies we welcome pets, because we know how much joy and wellbeing benefits they bring to our vibrant communities. Many of our homeowners enjoy exercising their furry friends at the beautiful natural surroundings of our retirement living locations.

Thankfully for our animal companions, there are some great ways to keep them in tip top shape.

My dog is used to two walks a day. What do I do?

For people who for any reason can’t exercise their dog, or whose dog is used to being walked two or more times a day, there are a number of ways dogs can be stimulated inside the home or garden.

These could include dividing meals so that your dog is fed smaller, but more frequent, portions. Another tip is to scatter their food so that they have to use their brain to find the food and, of course, it takes them longer.

Ihave two (or more) dogs, can I take each of them for a separate walk?

The latest Government lockdown guidance is that you can leave your house to exercise more than once a day and you could combine this with dog walking.

I’m self-isolating, how can I make sure my dog gets walked?

If your dog cannot exercise at home, you should ask someone outside of your household to walk your dog for you.

Members of the public may leave the house to provide care or help a vulnerable person. This includes walking a dog for someone who is unable to leave their house because they are self-isolating or being shielded.

They should remember to wash their hands before and after handling the dog and keep two metres away from other people and animals, including when handing over the dog to the owner.

What if my pet needs medical attention?

Veterinary practices are not on the list of businesses and premises that need to close and, as such, may open where necessary.

However, all non-essential trips to vets should be avoided. If your pet needs urgent treatment, you may take them, but must remember to wash your hands and remain two metres away from anyone outside your household.